75. The Invisible Exhaustion of Raising Two Kids Without Breaks

The Invisible Exhaustion of Raising Two Kids Without Breaks

There is a special kind of exhaustion that mothers carrying two kids feel — a deep, silent, unexplainable tiredness that sits inside the bones. It is not the “I worked too much today” tiredness. It is not the “I need one hour of sleep” tiredness.
It is the exhaustion that comes from raising two kids without breaks, where every day blends into the next, and the mother becomes the backbone of everyone’s life while slowly losing her own strength.

People see mothers smiling with their children. They see them cooking, cleaning, managing routines, attending school meetings, running behind toddlers, settling fights, washing dishes, and getting everything done.
But what they don’t see is the invisible emotional and mental burden she carries every minute of the day.

This blog is for every mother who is raising two kids and wondering, “Why am I so tired? Why can’t I handle everything like others?”
The truth is: you are handling more than anyone realises.

1. The Day Never Ends for a Mom of Two

When you have only one child, life is busy. But when you have two, life never pauses.

One wants attention.
The other wants something else at the same time.
One cries.
The other needs food.
One is sleepy.
The other becomes hyperactive.

There is no moment where both kids are quiet, happy, settled, or calm at the same time.
Your body may sit for a minute, but your mind is still running — planning the next snack, the next chore, the next homework, the next meltdown.

This continuous cycle is one of the main reasons mothers feel overwhelmed while raising two kids without breaks.

2. Two Kids Means Double Work — But Also Double Mental Load

People say, “Two kids? Oh, double the happiness!”
Yes, happiness doubles.
But so does the mental load.

Mothers handle:

  • two sets of schedules

  • two personalities

  • two emotional needs

  • two developmental stages

  • twice the crying

  • twice the tantrums

  • twice the mess

  • twice the responsibilities

And yet… she gets zero breaks.

Even sleep doesn’t belong to her anymore. One child may sleep, but the other might wake up. One may be calm, but the other may need attention.
The mother’s body remains in a constant state of alertness.

This is not just physical exhaustion — it is deep motherhood exhaustion.

3. The Guilt of Feeling Tired Never Ends

A mother raising two kids without breaks often faces “mom guilt.”
She feels guilty for:

  • being tired

  • wanting rest

  • needing help

  • feeling overwhelmed

  • raising her voice

  • not being patient enough

  • not giving equal attention to both kids

But here is the truth every mother needs to hear:

Being tired does not make you a bad mother.
It makes you a human mother.

Guilt is a heavy part of modern motherhood, but it shouldn’t be. The emotional load of managing two children is huge, and guilt only adds more weight.

4. Society Expects Mothers to Manage Everything

One of the toughest modern motherhood problems is this:
People expect mothers to “handle everything” simply because they are mothers.

They don’t see:

  • how many times she wakes up at night

  • how many tasks she does without anyone noticing

  • how many emotions she absorbs from her children

  • how much pain she hides to keep the family running

  • how many dreams she sacrifices

  • how she constantly holds back tears just to stay strong for everyone

While raising two kids without breaks, mothers become the emotional stabilizer for the whole family.
She is expected to be:

  • calm

  • patient

  • present

  • gentle

  • perfect

even when she is mentally drained and physically exhausted.

5. Self-Care Becomes a Luxury, Not a Routine

Ask any mother of two, “When did you last sit quietly for 10 minutes?”
She will think.
And she won’t remember.

Self-care becomes:

  • taking a bath alone

  • eating without rushing

  • drinking a hot cup of tea before it turns cold

  • breathing without interruption

These simple things become luxuries for a mother raising two kids without breaks.

Society says “self-care is important,” but who will take care of the kids when she takes care of herself?
No one offers real solutions — only advice.

6. The Loneliness Mothers Don’t Talk About

This is the raw truth:

A mother can be surrounded by her kids and still feel lonely.

Because she has no adult conversation, no emotional outlet, no one asking how she is, and no one understanding her mental load.
She loves her children, but she misses herself.

The loneliness of motherhood is real. It silently grows when days become repetitive and every minute is spent fulfilling someone else’s needs.

7. But Mothers Keep Going — and That’s Their Strength

Despite all the exhaustion, mothers continue to give love, patience, care, and warmth.
They may be drained, but they show up every day.
They may not get breaks, but they still create moments of happiness for their kids.
They may cry at night, but they smile in the morning.

This resilience is not weakness — it is pure strength.

A mother raising two kids without breaks is not “just doing her duty.”
She is performing the toughest job in the world with love.

A Gentle Reminder for Every Mother of Two

You are not failing.
You are not slow.
You are not weak.
You are not overreacting.

You are tired — because you do a lot.
You carry more than anyone sees.
You love more than anyone understands.
And you deserve rest, support, and appreciation.

You are doing an amazing job — even on the days you doubt yourself.

https://mysticalmomworld.com/when-life-takes-unexpected-turns-staying-strong-when-everything-feels-uncertain/

34.Gratitude Through My Life’s Ups and Downs: A Journey of Struggles, Love, and Silent Strength

Gratitude Through My Life’s Ups and Downs: A Journey of Struggles, Love, and Silent Strength

Life never promised me comfort, but it surely taught me gratitude. Every sunrise brings its own challenges, and every sunset carries stories that shaped me into who I am today. My life continues with so many ups and downs on a daily basis, yet, amidst all of it, I never forget to bow my head with a thankful heart — for the strength, for the lessons, and for everything I am blessed with.

I don’t want to advise anyone, nor do I want to conclude anything here. This is not a guide or a message — it’s just my heart speaking, raw and unfiltered, through everything I’ve lived — the tears, the laughter, the responsibilities, and the moments of silent victories.

The Woman Who Learned to Be Strong

There were times when I thought life was being unfair. When the responsibilities as a daughter-in-law, a wife, and a mother all collided, leaving me no time to breathe as just me. I carried expectations that were never spoken to me directly — they were simply expected.

There were days when I had no one to hold me, yet everyone expected me to hold them together. I was the daughter-in-law who had to take care of everything, even when I had my own wounds to heal. They called my husband, not me, yet they wanted me to serve, to smile, to be available. Those silent expectations taught me strength.

And yet, through all that, I learned one simple truth — the more life tries to break you, the deeper your roots of gratitude should grow.

Motherhood — My Source of Pain and Power

Motherhood changed everything. It wasn’t just about sleepless nights or endless duties; it was about rediscovering myself through the eyes of my children. When my husband was bedridden, and my baby was just 10 days old, I worked every single day, holding my family together with trembling hands and a determined heart.

I had an elder daughter who needed me emotionally, a newborn who needed me physically, and a household that needed me endlessly. And yet, in all that chaos, I found peace in the little smiles, in the tiny fingers holding mine, in the first words that filled my heart with purpose.

Motherhood made me realize that love is not a luxury — it’s strength disguised as softness.

The Forgotten Self

There came a time when I forgot to look into the mirror, when the reflection staring back didn’t look like me anymore. The woman who once had dreams, ambitions, and her own laughter slowly faded under responsibilities.

That’s when I understood why a mother must still groom herself — not for the world, not for validation — but for the soul that deserves to feel confident. Self-grooming became my small act of rebellion, my quiet way of saying, I still exist.

Because a woman’s identity doesn’t end with motherhood. She still deserves her own recognition, her financial independence, her sense of respect and dignity. I want my kids to see that their mother didn’t give up on herself — she grew, even when it was hard.

Lessons from the Struggles

Struggles have been my most honest teachers. When life broke me emotionally, I promised myself that my children would never have to go through the same pain. I wanted to give them the discipline, honour, and stability that I had longed for.

Yes, I’ve become emotionally harder, but that hardness came from pain. Behind it is a heart that only wanted love, understanding, and peace. I don’t regret any of it — because it made me who I am.

Every scar on my heart is a reminder of the days I survived when I thought I couldn’t. Every sleepless night built a woman who no longer fears darkness.

Laughter and Light in Between

Amidst all the chaos, I found laughter — not the loud, careless laughter of youth, but the gentle kind that heals the soul. Sometimes it came from a silly conversation, sometimes from a random person who made me smile when I least expected it.

Everyone needs someone who can make them laugh — not as a helper, not as a partner, but as a light. Especially mothers, who often forget what it feels like to laugh without guilt. That laughter reminded me that life is not always about surviving; it’s about living too.

Living My Dreams, Even If Slowly

There’s a dreamer inside every mother, and I refused to let mine die. Between work, motherhood, and expectations, I learned to carve small moments for my dreams — writing, creating, building something of my own.

Yes, it’s hard to juggle everything, but dreams are what keep the heart alive. Even if it’s one small step a day, it’s still progress.

Living my dreams is not about escaping my responsibilities; it’s about honouring the person who carries them all — me.

Gratitude — My Constant Companion

Today, when I look back, I see more blessings than pain. The struggles taught me humility, motherhood taught me patience, loneliness taught me strength, and gratitude taught me peace.

I don’t have everything I once wished for, but I have everything I need. A roof, two loving daughters, and a heart that still believes in goodness — what more could I ask for?

I am grateful for the pain because it made me empathetic. I am grateful for the silence because it helped me listen to my own heart. And I am grateful for every person who walked away, because they made space for strength to walk in.

Just Feelings, No Conclusions

This isn’t a motivational blog. I’m not trying to tell anyone how to live. These are just my feelings — the unspoken words that stayed behind every smile, every struggle, every quiet night when I looked at the ceiling and whispered, “Thank you, God, for one more day.”

Gratitude doesn’t come from perfection; it grows in the cracks of an imperfect life. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned through it all — it’s that life is still beautiful, even when it hurts.

Through all the ups and downs, I remain grateful — for the love, the lessons, and the life that continues to shape me every single day.

31.Life Made Me Hard, But My Kids Will Live Soft Yet Strong

https://mysticalmomworld.com/live-your-dreams-along-with-motherhood/Life Made Me Hard, But My Kids Will Live Soft Yet Strong

There comes a time in every mother’s life when pain turns into purpose.
When struggles that once broke her now become the fuel that drives her dreams — not for herself anymore, but for her children.

I am that mother.

Life didn’t treat me gently. It wasn’t the kind of life where mornings started with smiles and nights ended with peace. I have seen days when breathing itself felt like a burden — when responsibilities, pain, and loneliness walked hand in hand. Those were the days that made me emotionally hard. But instead of breaking me, life carved me into a woman with fire in her eyes and purpose in her heart.

I Don’t Want My Kids to Face What I Faced

My emotional toughness is not my pride — it’s my wound that healed the hard way. I don’t want my children to go through the same painful journey that shaped me. I want them to grow in an environment where strength doesn’t come from suffering, but from values, education, and discipline.

I want my children to study — not just because society demands it, but because I know what happens when opportunities slip away due to struggles and survival.
Even when they feel tired, lazy, or disinterested, I remind them — study for the life you deserve, not just the life you have.

Because I have lived the other side — the side where dreams get delayed, where respect has to be earned twice as hard, and where survival replaces ambition.

The Thirst for Honour and Standard of Life

Sometimes, I close my eyes and imagine my children standing tall — as officers, achievers, and respected individuals. The kind of people who walk into a room and are greeted with dignity. That honour, that standard of life, that disciplined aura — it’s not just success for me; it’s my redemption.

I am thirsty for that honour, not because I crave recognition, but because I want to see my children live a life I could only dream of.
A life where they are not questioned, not judged, not pitied — but respected.

A life where “privilege” doesn’t mean wealth, but stability, safety, and respect earned through effort and education.

Life Is Truly Beautiful Only When It Is Privileged

Yes, life becomes beautiful when it’s privileged — when worries don’t revolve around survival but around dreams.
When the mornings begin with gratitude, not anxiety.
When there’s time to breathe, think, and grow.

Privilege is not just about money — it’s about freedom. The freedom to choose your path, the dignity to say “no,” and the comfort to say “yes” without fear.

That’s the life I want for my kids — and that’s why I push them so hard.

I am not a strict mother by nature, but by experience. I have seen how undisciplined dreams die young.
I have seen how comfort kills potential.
So, I push.
I scold.
I repeat lessons.
I teach them to rise after failing, to sit with books even when the mind wanders.
Because tomorrow, I want to see them live a life where no one dares to question their worth.

Pain Transforms When It Has a Purpose

The biggest blessing of my pain is the clarity it gave me.
When you have lived through struggle, you stop chasing temporary things. You begin to build legacies.

I am not raising children; I am raising future officers, disciplined leaders, and strong souls who will never bow before the world.
I tell my kids, “Your mother has already seen the worst. Now it’s your turn to bring out the best.”

That’s not pressure — that’s passion rooted in love.

Discipline: The Bridge Between Dream and Success

I’ve learned that dreams without discipline are like seeds without water.
Discipline may feel like a burden in childhood, but it becomes a blessing in adulthood.
That’s why I wake them early, make them respect time, and push them to study sincerely — because the world only respects those who respect their own time and effort.

Every time I see them complain, I remember my own childhood when I didn’t have the privilege to complain.
That’s when I smile and say, “Keep going — one day you’ll thank me.”

From Emotional Pain to Emotional Power

There’s a saying — “A mother’s pain doesn’t end with her; it transforms through her children.”

Today, my emotional scars have turned into invisible shields around my kids. They protect, guide, and teach silently.
I don’t want them to feel pity for me; I want them to feel proud — proud of a mother who fought storms so they could live under sunshine.

I am not a soft mother anymore, but I am a deeply loving one.
My love shows in the way I discipline, the way I correct, the way I insist.
Because love without direction creates weakness.
But love with discipline creates destiny.

My Vision for My Kids’ Future

I don’t want my children to chase temporary joys; I want them to build lasting honour.
I want them to experience the privilege that comes from self-earned respect — the kind that no one can take away.

When I see officers in uniform, leaders with purpose, and achievers with grace — my heart whispers, “That’s where I want my children to be.”

Not because I seek luxury, but because I want dignity.
Not because I want status, but because I want stability.
And not because I want to prove something to others, but because I want to prove to myself — that my pain wasn’t wasted.

Final Thoughts: From Struggle to Legacy

Life made me emotionally hard, but that hardness has a reason — it’s my shield and my foundation.
I may have cried in silence, fought in darkness, and walked alone, but today I walk with purpose.

I am building a legacy — one disciplined child at a time.
Because life is not about escaping pain, it’s about transforming it into strength.
And when my children rise above the world someday, I’ll finally whisper to myself — “Yes, life is beautiful when it’s privileged.”

30.Why Every Mother Should Continue to Groom Herself – Confidence, Self-Worth & Happiness

Why Every Mother Should Continue to Groom Herself – Confidence, Self-Worth & Happinesshttps://mysticalmomworld.com/why-every-woman-needs-her-own-identity-after-marriage/

 The Woman Behind the Mother

Motherhood is often celebrated as the purest form of love — yet it can silently take away the time a woman once devoted to herself. From early morning school runs to late-night responsibilities, life becomes a series of endless to-dos. Amid this beautiful chaos, one habit often gets neglected — self-grooming.

But grooming is not vanity. Grooming is self-respect. It’s a reminder that you, the mother, still matter — not just as a caregiver, but as a woman of grace, dignity, and confidence.

When you groom yourself, you’re not trying to impress others. You’re simply reclaiming your confidence, peace, and identity.

1. Grooming Is Self-Respect, Not Selfishness

Many mothers feel guilty about taking time for themselves. Society often makes them believe that spending a few minutes on makeup or self-care is “unnecessary.”

But here’s the truth — self-grooming is a form of self-respect.
Brushing your hair, wearing neat clothes, applying moisturizer — these are not acts of vanity, but acts of acknowledgment. You’re reminding yourself that you deserve attention too.

When a mother values herself, her family learns to value her even more.

2. Self-Grooming Builds Confidence for Moms

Confidence is not about perfection; it’s about self-acceptance.
When you take the time to groom yourself, you feel better, fresher, and more in control. That simple shift reflects in your attitude and communication.

Think of a morning where you spend five extra minutes dressing up — suddenly, your mood is brighter, and you feel ready to face the day. Grooming fuels confidence for moms, helping them face challenges with grace and positivity.

3. Self-Care for Mothers Improves Mental and Emotional Health

A mother’s emotional well-being directly affects her home’s atmosphere. Grooming and self-care are scientifically proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue.

Take a warm shower, apply your favorite lotion, or even enjoy a short skincare ritual — these acts tell your mind, I am cared for.

Grooming is not just about appearance; it’s about inner healing. It’s one of the most effective self-care for mothers practices that reconnects them with their body and soul.

4. You Set an Example for Your Children

Children watch and absorb everything. When your child sees you maintaining yourself, they learn that self-respect begins with self-care.

You teach them:

  • Cleanliness is confidence.

  • Grooming reflects discipline.

  • Taking care of yourself is strength, not selfishness.

A mother’s grooming routine silently teaches life lessons that no school can. It builds future adults who value balance, hygiene, and inner peace.

5. Reconnecting with the Woman You Were Before Motherhood

Before you were “Mom,” you were a woman full of dreams, style, and individuality. That woman still lives inside you — she just needs your permission to bloom again.

Wearing your favorite dress, styling your hair, or even applying a touch of lipstick can help you reconnect with your inner self.

Beauty and motherhood can coexist beautifully — when you nurture both, you glow from within.

6. Grooming Is About Mindset, Not Makeup

Let’s clear a misconception — self-grooming is not about heavy makeup or expensive products. It’s about maintaining cleanliness, hygiene, and freshness.

Simple daily habits make a huge difference:

  • Bathing regularly and using a mild fragrance.

  • Wearing clean, comfortable clothes.

  • Keeping nails, hair, and skin healthy.

  • Smiling — your natural glow!

It’s all about mothers self-grooming in simple, consistent ways that reflect love for oneself.

7. Grooming Boosts Productivity and Positivity

Starting your day well-groomed boosts motivation. When you feel good, you think clearly, act calmly, and handle stress better.

A well-groomed appearance is not about showing off — it’s about showing up for yourself. It’s about creating a routine that says, I am ready to conquer this day.

8. Society Needs to Normalize Mothers Taking Care of Themselves

Society often romanticizes the “tired mom” stereotype — the one who sacrifices sleep, beauty, and peace for everyone else. But modern motherhood is evolving.

It’s time to celebrate the mother who balances responsibility and self-love.
Because a happy mother raises happier children.

So never feel guilty for wanting to look and feel good. You’re not just doing it for appearance; you’re doing it for your mental well-being and confidence.

9. Quick Grooming Tips for Mothers (Even on Hectic Days)

Here are simple ways you can stay well-groomed daily — without extra effort:

  1. Keep skincare minimal: cleanse, moisturize, sunscreen.

  2. Comb your hair neatly every morning.

  3. Apply lip balm or kajal to brighten your face.

  4. Choose fresh, breathable clothes (even at home).

  5. Keep nails clean and trimmed.

  6. Drink plenty of water for natural glow.

  7. Smile — it’s your best accessory.

Consistency matters more than time. Just 10 minutes a day can make you feel rejuvenated and confident.

10. Final Thoughts: Confidence Through Self-Love

Motherhood doesn’t mean losing your shine — it means adding new dimensions to it.

By taking care of yourself, you’re setting a tone of confidence, strength, and emotional stability in your family.

You are not just a mother — you are a woman of worth, a symbol of resilience, and a reflection of divine beauty.

So every morning, when you stand before the mirror, remind yourself:
 “I am not tired. I am transforming.”

Groom yourself. Love yourself. Celebrate yourself.
Because when a mother glows with confidence, her entire home lights up.

14.Breaking the Chains of Silence: A Daughter-in-law’s Journey from Endurance to Strength

Breaking the Chains of Silence: A Daughter-in-law’s Journey from Endurance to Strength https://mysticalmomworld.com/when-everything-feels-messed-up-mothers-sy/

 

The Early Morning That Tested My Strength

The night had barely ended when my alarm buzzed at 4 AM. My body ached, my eyes were heavy, but my mind knew I had no choice – the day of the PUJA had arrived.

Alone, I began decluttering the house, shifting heavy wooden sofas, iron beds, tables, and chairs – all by myself. There was no helping hand, yet my determination to make everything pure and puja ready kept me going.

By sunrise, every corner of the house shone with cleanliness, my sweat mixing with the sacred energy of devotion. Everything was set for the Bhagats (priests) who were supposed to arrive early. But as it  always happens, they were late. Still, I waited patiently.

When Expectations Collided with  Reality

When the Bhagats finally arrived, their first question wasn’t about breakfast.

I was stunned. Just a day before, when we had asked about their food preferences, they had clearly said they wouldn’t eat anything from our home. So naturally, we hadn’t prepared anything.

Before I could react, a relative who had been hovering around – more interested in interfering than helping – jumped into the scene. Instead of supporting me, she rushed to her house, dragging her mother along to prepare food for the Bhagats.

What hurt wasn’t that she cooked – it was how she did it. As if I was incapable, as if my efforts meant nothing. When she came back, she took charge of arrangements, talking in a way that screamed superiority.

And then she crossed the line – she spoke disrespectfully about my parents. That was the moment something inside me broke.

The Unspoken Pain of a Daughter-in-Law in Indian Families

For years, I had kept silent, accepting everything as a daughter-in-law is “supposed” to. But that day, I realized how flawed this idea of silent endurance truly is.

In many Indian families, the daughter-in-law and her parents are taken for granted. Her family is treated as outsiders, unworthy of respect. The hypocrisy is painful – their own daughters are cherished, while their son’s wives are criticized and controlled.

Breaking the Chains of Silence

 

It has been twelve long years of enduring this – being told when I can visit my parents, being made to feel guilty for talking to them, being reminded that if I do visit, I must bring gifts for in-laws to prove respect.

My parents stopped visiting our house 10 years back, because they couldn’t tolerate how their daughter is being treated in that house.

Here, on the other hand my in-laws asked me and my husband not to come to home, they don’t want us. My sister-in-law and her whole family shifted to my home without mine or my husband’s knowledge. They spoke ill of us, disrespected us, and poisoned relationships – and I quietly accepted it, thinking patience would one day melt hearts.

It never did.

The Moment I Found My Voice

When that same relative asked us to come and stay at their house that evening, I calmly refused. I told her I didn’t appreciate being taken for granted, and that I didn’t like the way she so casually disrespected my parents.

She tried to justify, twisting the situation as always, but this time  I didn’t stay silent.

I told her, “If you can’t respect my parents, you don’t deserve a place in my life.”

That sentence wasn’t anger – it was liberation.

For twelve years, I had been holding myself back, tolerating everything silently. But now, I understood something powerful:

Silence in the face of disrespect is not peace – it’s surrender.”

I had surrendered enough.

The Day I Chose Self-Respect Over Approval

After the puja ended and everyone left, I finally sat down to eat. It was 4 PM. My body was exhausted, but my heart felt peaceful.

That day, I didn’t fight for revenge. I fought for dignity.

Later, I played with my kids, helped my daughter attend her online class, and then continued working on my laptop till 1 AM, again. But this time, something was different. I wasn’t tired – I was empowered.

I realized I no longer needed validation. I no longer needed to prove my worth through silence or sacrifice. I had learned to say no – with confidence and calm.

Lessons Learned: The Power of Setting Boundaries

We are often taught that keeping quiet avoids conflict. But in truth, silence only feeds toxicity.

I’ve learned that true peace comes from setting boundaries. You can love people deeply and still refuse to let them disrespect you.

Yes, I am a daughter-in-law, but I am also a daughter, mother, and woman – and above all, a human being who deserves respect.

My Message to Every Woman Reading This

If you’ve been silently tolerating mistreatment, remember: Your worth is not measured by by how much pain you can endure. Your strength is shown in how firmly you stand for yourself.

You don’t have to scream. You don’t have to prove.

You just have to choose yourself – with quiet, fearless conviction.

“When a woman finally speaks after years if silence, it’s not anger. It’s healing.”

This isn’t rebellion.

This is rebirth.

Reflection: Finding Devotion Within

We often speak of worship and rituals, but true devotion begins with self-respect. You cannot honor the divine if you keep allowing others to dishonor your soul.

So today, as I light the lamp in my home, I pray –

Not for perfect that comes from silence,

But for strength to speak the truth with grace.

https://www.verywellmind.com/emotional-abuse-4155228

13. A Journey of Sleepless Love: Between Two Homes and Countless Emotions

A Journey of Sleepless Love: Between Two Homes and Countless Emotionshttps://mysticalmomworld.com/when-everything-feels-messed-up-mothers-sy/it

A Journey of Sleepless Love

 

The Sleepless Night That Began It All

The night before had no sleep in – not because I wasn’t tired, but because I was a mother on alert. As the train sped through the dark, I stayed half-awake, guarding my little world. My elder daughter slept peacefully on the upper berth, wrapped in innocence, while I watched over her with love stronger than sleep.

Every few minutes, I’d adjust her blanket, check on her, and make sure she was safe. My eyes were heavy, but my heart was awake – a mother’s instinct never rests.

Morning Light, Family Warmth

By dawn, my daughters woke up cheerful as always, followed by my husband’s sleepy smile. We greeted each other softly – our own little “good morning” orchestra. The train wheels clattered in rhythm, and laughter slowly filled the compartment.

While they played and gazed outside, I pulled out my laptop to finish the pending work. Between emails and laughter, we played a riddle game – something small, yet stitched joy into our tired morning.

The Bhel Ritual That Connects Generations

And then came our travel favourite – bhel time.

I have followed this ritual for 20 years – no train food, except that one spicy, tangy bhel we  have it together. It started when I was  a teenager, and now my kids carry it forward.

It’s amazing how simple things – like bhel in a moving train can become the thread that connects generations. That’s love in it’s simplest form.

The Surprise Visit – A Mother’s Warm Embrace

When we reached the city, instead of heading straight to my in-laws house, we decided to surprise my parents first. The moment they saw us – especially my daughters – their eyes filled with tears of joy.

My mother hugged them tightly, her hands trembling with love. My father’s smile spoke everything his words couldn’t. It’s amazing how parents never expect anything, yet give everything. Their love is the kind of home that never fades.

Between Two Homes – Where Love Meets Indifference

Then came the part  that always tests my heart – arriving at my in-laws house. Every visit feels uncertain. Would there be warmth or just the same quiet indifference? Sadly, it was the letter.

We were told to wait outside for nearly two hours because of madi – a ritual about purity. My daughters were tired and hungry, yet no one seemed moved. Ironically, when a friend stopped by, my mother-in-law served him coffee – while we sat outside.

I smiled through the ache, reminding myself – love should never depend on how others treat you.

A Meal, A Gesture, and Unspoken Feelings

Later, a relative invited us for breakfast. The food was delicious, their care made it taste even better. They even gifted us new clothes for an upcoming puja – thoughtful, though I didn’t quiet like them.

Still, I kept my calm and smiled. Some days, we don’t need to love everything – we just need to honor the intension behind it.

Work, Rituals, and an Unexpected Call of Love

After returning, I worked for a while on my laptop and helped with cleaning for the rituals ahead. They, my mother called – insisting we buy new clothes from their side too. My father transferred money instantly, his quiet love speaking through actions.

So, my husband, our younger daughter, and I went shopping. Despite his old leg injury and surgeries, my husband rode the gear bike, Watching him push through pain reminded me – strength isn’t loud; it’s quiet endurance.

A Mother’s Warmth and a Sister’s Smile

We stopped by my parents house again. My mother handed me a large bag filled with new clothes for everyone, including my in-laws. My sister served us festive snacks and laughter – that sweet kind of warmth that money can’t buy.

Night, Silence, and Grace

By evening, we returned home in my parents car. Dinner was quiet, conversations careful. When everyone slept, I stayed up – finishing chores, folding clothes, arranging for the next day.

Finally, past midnight, I opened my laptop again. Working late has become my way to find peace amid chaos. The day hadn’t been perfect – but it had grace.

Because life teaches us this simple truth – we can’t control how others treat us, but we can control how we carry our hearts through it.

Reflections: The Journey Beyond Distance

Not every journey is about distance – some are about emotional miles. Not every home feels like one – some only echo with expectations. But still, we walk, love, and hope – because somewhere, the love we give becomes our light in darkness.

When I watched my daughters sleep that night, I promised myself – their childhood will be filled with love, not bitterness. Because I choose to be the love I never received.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6857243/

12. A Sleepless Night and a Journey of Love

12. A Sleepless Night and a Journey of Love: A Mother’s Day Before Maramma Jatrehttps://mysticalmomworld.com/feeling-like-the-odd-one-out/

A Sleepless Night and a Journey of Love

 

Some days in a mother’s life are not just busy – they are unforgettable journeys of love, patience, and strength. Last night was one such day for me. We had slept very late, almost around 1 AM, yet by 6 AM, I was up again. The alarm clock was my mind itself – reminding me that I had to send my elder daughter to school and my husband to the office. No matter how tired I was, my heart didn’t let me rest because my family’s day had to start smoothly.

Morning Hustle Before Maramma Jatre

I prepared breakfast and packed the snacks box for my elder one. She had only a half day at school since it was Maramma Jatre, a local festival that brings spiritual energy and cultural celebration to our town. My little angel woke up with sleepy eyes, rubbing them gently as if pleading for five more minutes of sleep. But as always, her sweet smile and cheerful spirit made the morning brighter. We laughed, teased each other, and started the day with joy instead of rush.

Soon, my elder one and husband left for school and office, leaving me with my younger one still fast asleep. That peaceful silence – right after everyone leaves – is something every mother knows. I used it wisely to finish my packing, as that very day we were leaving for our hometown.

The Packing Marathon

“Oh God,” I kept saying to myself, “there’s so much to pack!” Every mother has this invisible checklist in her head, yet somehow we always feel something is forgotten. I wanted to ensure everything was perfect, from clothes to medicines, from kids snacks to chargers – every detail mattered because the journey was 14 hours long by train.

My husband was advised by the doctor not to lift heavy luggage, so I divided everything smartly into two trolleys, one tuck-back bag, and a laptop bag. It might sound simple, but the mental load of remembering every small thing for a family trip is enormous. Yet, as mothers, we carry it with pride.

By afternoon, my elder one returned from school. I decided not to go to the shop that day – family came first. I fed both my kids a wholesome lunch and started preparing homemade food for the train journey. I wanted them to eat healthy, comforting meals – something warm from home, not station food.

A Quick Dash for Gifts and Goodbyes

In the middle of this chaos, I realized I needed to buy a gift for my niece. So I took both my kids and went out shopping. Thankfully, we finished everything within 20 minutes! Back home, I made sure the house was clean, all switches turned off, gas checked, and things safely locked before leaving for 10 – 11 days.

It’s funny – every time I leave my house, I whisper a little prayer: “Deva, protect this home, and bless our journey.”

The Rush to the Railway Station

Our cab arrived right on time. My husband was to meet us directly at the station after work. The cab driver drove quite fast, overtaking vehicles as if we were on a racetrack. In a calm yet firm tone, I told him in kannada, “Anna, namge urgent yenu ella” (Brother, we’re not in a hurry). He smiled and slowed down. It was a small but beautiful moment of human connection – a reminder that respect and kindness always travel faster than speed.

We reached the station about half an hour before my husband. I waited with my daughters in the waiting hall, watching people rush around – some emotional goodbyes, some excited reunions, and some, like me, holding onto both children and luggage, managing everything in silence.

The Challenge of Luggage and Steps

When my husband arrived, I asked him to just hold the kids hands while I managed the luggage. I was shocked when the coolie asked for almost the price of our train ticket to carry our bags! Without hesitation, I decided to carry it all myself.

There were 28 steps to climb – two trolleys, a tuck-back, and a laptop bag – and I carried them all, one by one. My husband watched with pride and a little worry, but I felt empowered. At that moment, I wasn’t just a mother or a wife – I I was my own strength. When we finally reached our platform, I took a deep breath and silently thanked Lord Ganesha for the energy.

A Train Ride Full of Emotions

Once we boarded the train, everything seemed to settle. The rhythmic sound of the train wheels always has a magical way of calming the mind. My parents kept calling repeatedly, insisting that they would pick us up and that I should drop them and take the car. I said “No,” even though my parents were heartbroken. It’s strange how love sometimes means saying no for the right reasons.

As the train started moving, my kids said they were hungry. I opened the food boxes I had packed lovingly – rotis, sabji, some sweets – we shared our meal as the train swayed gently. There’s something sacred about eating food cooked with love during a journey – it feels like home even when you’re miles away.

Motherhood Never Sleeps

After dinner, I helped my daughters settle into their berths. The younger one struggled to fall asleep, tossing and turning. It was past 2 AM, when she finally dozed off. I couldn’t open my laptop or do any pending work. My husband and I kept a close watch on our elder one, who was sleeping alone on the opposite berth. She’s 7 now – independent but still our baby. We both made sure no one disturbed her and that she didn’t roll off the seat.

As the train moved through the silent night, I stayed awake, gazing at the dimly lit compartment. I saw people of every kind – some kind-hearted, some with rough behaviour, some unhygienic, some caring. Each face told a story, each story a reflection of humanity itself.

Somewhere between exhaustion and contentment, I realized – a mother’s journey never pauses. Even in sleepless nights and heavy luggage, in forgotten items and endless checklists, there’s a quite beauty – the beauty of giving without expecting.

Reflections of Gratitude

By morning, I was still awake but my heart was full. Watching my family sleep peacefully – my husband beside me, my daughters in their blankets – I felt blessed. Life might be tiring, but it is also tender. Every challenge, every sleepless night, every bit of struggle brings us closer to the meaning of love and responsibility.

This was not just a train journey – it was a journey of motherhood, a story of endurance and care that  every woman silently lives through.

And as the first rays of dawn touched the train window, I whispered a silent prayer to Mahadev – “Thank you for the strength, thank you for this love.”

Takeaway:

Every day in a woman’s life is a story of divine balance – between duty and love, strength and softness, self-care and sacrifice. Whether you are traveling, working, or just managing your family’s routine, remember – you are enough, you are strong, and your journey itself is sacred.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maramma

11.A Day Wrapped In Devotion, Duty, and Love

A Day Wrapped In Devotion, Duty, and Love – Balancing Life as a Mother and Healerhttps://mysticalmomworld.com/when-everything-feels-messed-up-mothers-sy/

A Day Wrapped In Devotion, Duty, and Love – Balancing Life as a Mother and Healer

 

Morning Bliss and New Beginnings

The day began before the sun could rise – at 5 AM, with the peaceful silence of dawn whispering calmness into my home. The stillness of early morning always feels like a divine blessing, a moment when I connect with myself and my responsibilities. I began with my daily household chores, tidying up the house and setting the energy right for the day.

With a loving smile, I woke up my elder daughter, who had her Olympiad studies. Seeing her dedication at such a young age fills me with pride. As she studied, I prepared breakfast and lunch boxes for my husband and kids – a small act of love that feels sacred to me. I showered my love, while helping my elder baby get ready for school.

Before my younger one woke up, I spent a few moments lighting the lamp in our home shrine – whispering a soft prayer to Lord Ganesha, seeking strength and peace for the day ahead.

When my little one woke up, she came running to me with her sleepy smile – a moment that melts every mother’s heart. Showering each other with fun filled jokes, morning hours spent happily. Once everyone was ready, I sent my husband and elder daughter off to work and school with blessings and hugs.

Work Mode and Divine Start

After finishing the initial chores, I and my younger one left for our shop. As we entered, I lit a lamp before Lord Ganesha, invoking positivity and protection. The flickering flame seemed to whisper, “Have faith; today will unfold beautifully.”

However, the day had its own challenges. A client who had already postponed his appointment twice needed to be attended to. I called him for confirmation, and thankfully , he agreed to come. Soon, he arrived, and I completed his treatment successfully, thanking the divine for giving me the patience and strength to handle it well.

Afterward, I spent some precious moments playing and talking with my younger daughter – these little breaks are pure magic. We got back home in the afternoon, where I prepared ragi sari for her. Once she had it,  she peacefully drifted into sleep.

During her nap, I caught up on my pending household tasks and began packing my kids essentials for our upcoming hometown trip. The day was rolling fast, yet everything felt purposeful.

Evening Hustle and Surprising Visitors

By the time my elder daughter returned from school, the younger one had woken up, full of energy again. Both my girls began playing and laughing together. To my surprise they even cleaned the house, making it look neat and sparkling – they were expecting a special visit from my elder daughter’s best friend and her father, who were coming to invite us to a family wedding.

Watching my kids take responsibility like that made my heart swell with joy. However, I had to leave at my regular shop time – it was the first time ever that I had to leave them alone, even for just five minutes. Before leaving, I made sure they were safe, guided, and confident.

Unexpected Challenges at the Shop

When I reached the shop, I found my clients already waiting. I jumped straight into work without taking a breath. In between I called up my husband to confirm whether he has reached home or not. For my good, he had reached home within 5 minutes of me leaving. I took a deep relaxed breath, hen concentrated towards my work.

One of them was a new client referred by a known person. He insisted that the treatment be started immediately. Before beginning, I explained every step clearly – from procedure to charges. He agreed to everything. But soon, I realized why others had turned him away – his mouth opening was too limited, making it nearly impossible to work comfortably.

Many shops had only prescribed medicines and delayed treatment, but I chose to help him genuinely. For nearly two hours, I worked with utmost patience, handling his frequent interruptions and restlessness. The work was physically tough, but my sense of duty and sincerity guided me through.

However, when the procedure ended, he suddenly started talking about being a PR professional, boasting about his work. Before I could process that, he got up and said he needed to speak to the person who referred him before making the payment.

I politely reminded him that payment should be made immediately, but he ignored it and rushed out, promising to return in 10 minutes. Sadly, he never did.

It was disappointing – not just financially, but emotionally too. As a professional, I give my full heart and sincerity to each client, and moments like these test one’s patience and faith deeply.

Long Day, Long Route, and Little Angels

Even after this chaos, I attended one more old client, finishing around 10:50 PM. Then, I cleaned the clinic thoroughly – a small act of closure after a long, draining day.

As I stepped out, I realized the regular route home was blocked due to the Maramma Jatre, a local divine fair. So, I had to take a longer route, reaching home by 11:40 PM.

To my surprise, my little angels were still awake, their faces glowing with excitement. They insisted that we take them out for a walk under the bright colorful lights of the Jatre. Though exhausted, my heart softened seeing their joy.

While I was away at the shop, my husband attended the guests when he got back home. I had left everything well-prepared so that he and the kids wouldn’t face any inconvenience in my absence. The tray was set with mugs ready for coffee, and the wafers and potato chips were neatly arranged in beautiful glass serving bowls.

As my husband later shared, my daughter’s best friend’s father turned out to be a genuinely kind and warm person, and they had a heartfelt conversation. My husband truly enjoyed his company, and my daughters had a wonderful time playing and laughing with the friend.

When I finally returned home late night, my husband and kids excitedly narrated the entire evening, their, smiles reflecting the joy and warmth that filled our home even in my absence.

After having a quick dinner with my husband, we all stepped out together. The streets shimmered with festive energy – lights, music, food stalls, and laughter. Watching my kids walking under those vibrant lights felt like watching life itself glowing in divine colors.

After a short walk, we returned home. My daughters, still full of energy, jumped on the bed, danced, and laughed. Their happiness filled the air like music. I gathered them both into my arms, whispering softly, “My world begins and ends with you.”

Slowly, their eyelids drooped, their giggles faded, and soon, they were fast asleep. As I slipped into bed, a sense of calmness, gratitude, and divine peace surrounded me. The day was long, tiring, and emotional – but it was real, fulfilling, and blessed.

Reflections Before Sleep

Every day in my life feels like a balancing act between devotion, motherhood, and duty. Some days bring success, some bring challenges – but every day brings learning and grace.

As I  closed my eyes, I thanked Lord Ganesha once again – for strength, protection, and the love that keeps me grounded.

Because at the end of the day, no matter how chaotic life gets, love, faith, and family make everything worthwhile.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/empathy

4. When Sweetness Turns Sinister: A Mother’s Battle With Betrayal and Survival

When Sweetness Turns Sinister: A Mother’s Battle With Betrayal and Survivalhttps://mysticalmomworld.com/the-power-of-saying-sorry/

When Sweetness Turns Sinister

 

When Sweetness Turns Sinister: A Mother’s Battle With Betrayal and Survival…From the outside, my life looked like the busy, slightly chaotic, but fulfilling life of a small business owner and mother. I ran my own service shop-a place that was supposed to be filled with smiles, satisfied clients, and the hum of everyday work. Inside, I juggled motherhood, business, and personal challenges with the determination only a mother can know. But what unfolded in less than a year shook me to the core and left me alone in my workplace – working, cleaning, and mothering under the same roof.

The Helper Who Seemed Too Good to Be True

It began with a woman who entered my life at a time when I desperately needed an extra pair of hands. She was over caring, advising good things, over sweet, and used to offer favors without asking. In a life where every minute counts, a helper like her felt like a blessing. She was giving a vibe of elder family member. She smiled easily, spoke only those words which used to be in our favor only let it be any matter. Seemed genuinely interested in making my life easier. What else anybody wants from a helper.

Yet, beneath that kindness were little things that felt “off”. She asked for my home address repeatedly, each time with a different excuse: “I’ll drop something for the kids,” “I want to visit for a festival,” “I’ll bring you home-cooked food.” The first time, it sounded thoughtful. The second time, it was odd. By the fourth or fifth time, it became unsettling.

Mothers often sense danger before it shows itself. But, here my husband had a really bad intuitions when the topic of her raised every time. He kept saying, don’t let that lady come home, “I don’t get good vibes from her.” Deep inside me, a voice whispered: Something isn’t right.

The helper lady used to speak like “I saw something at the entrance of the shop today, that people use in black magic. I feel somebody has done something.” One day she rang me almost 17 times while I was on my way to the shop. She was waiting outside, once I got down from my vehicle, she pulled me with her hands, took me to my shop entrance, I saw a featherless bird just at my shop entrance, the bird was dead. I told her to remove that and clean, but before I could finish my sentence she said “somebody has done some black magic to harm your business and kill you and your family”. I got bit worried and continued with my work. Since then, I noticed that lady every now and then used to ask for my sarees or other clothes. She became irregular towards coming to work, used take everything for granted.

The Day I Had To Say Goodbye

The situation reached a point where I could no longer ignore my gut feeling. One day, after noticing behaviour I can only describe as “really unusual” – actions that didn’t fit the role of a helper at all – I gathered my courage and told her not to come back. I was polite but firm.

Her expression changed. The sweetness vanished in a fraction of second, she told me to pay her 6 months amount. I told her that’s not possible, she then showed me her real face. She went out of the shop, stood there, started shouting, using vulgar and really bad terms. There is mentioned, “I will make sure you don’t survive here, I will make sure you are ruined”. For that moment, I felt really embarrassed, but I felt relieved, thinking I had protected my home and business. Little did I know, my trials were only beginning.

 

The Slow Unravelling

The next day early morning itself my elder daughter had fell off her school private van, fractured nasal septum, broken anterior, lacerated cheek and lips. Within days of her departure, small cracks started to appear in my business. Clients who had been regular for years suddenly stopped showing up. Walk-ins, which had been my bread and butter, dried up. The shop, once buzzing with activity, became eerily quite.

On the rare days someone did enter, they would request heavy, expensive services and then leave without paying – something that had never happened before. Each incident felt like a punch to the gut, not just financially but emotionally. I started questioning myself: Was I doing something wrong? Was my quality slipping?

But my work hadn’t changed. My dedication hadn’t changed. Only my reality had.

Alone in the Shop

Day by day my staff started leaving too. First one, then another, until finally, it was only me left in the shop. I was the one cleaning the floors, wiping counters, handling appointments, and offering services. At the same time, I was managing my kids right there in the workplace-because I had no one at home to care for them

The weight was crushing. Some days, after closing the shop, I would sit on the floor in silence, my children playing beside me, and wonder how everything had gone so wrong so quickly.

It was more than just business loss; it felt like someone had cast a shadow over my life. The helper’s face would come to mind – her sweet smile, her repeated requests for my home address, the unusual things she had done. A chilling thought arose: Was this intentional? Was this….something beyond my imagination.

However, I kept giving my best all the time. There came a day when every thing changed – my patience had finally run out. I wanted to give up. I was terribly broken. Then, I called one of my clients who works for a Ganesha temple, asked her if she knew anyone who could find out what exactly was happening with me and my shop. She shared a persons contact number and said he  could tell if there were any issues with me.

I called him immediately. He asked for my birth details and hung up, saying he would call back after sometime. . About three hours later, he called back saying everything was fine with my horoscope  but asked me to answer a few questions before he concluded anything. Finally, he said, “it’s VAMACHARA. Some lady has done this to destroy you.”

I had always brushed off such ideas as superstition. But when your entire livelihood crumbles without explanation, you start searching for answers anywhere you can. And I must say, the man explained everything in simple language – and somehow, it actually made sense.

Motherhood in the Midst of Crisis

Running a business as a mother is already a balancing act, but when betrayal and financial loss are added to the equation, it becomes a tightrope walk without a safety net. I found myself wearing every hat – cleaner, receptionist, service provider, caretaker, teacher, cook, and mother.

My children, too young to understand, would watch me rush from one task to another. Sometimes they would ask why the shop was empty, or why I seemed so tired. I’d smile and say, “It’s just a slow day,” even when my heart was breaking.

Lessons From the Darkness

It’s easy to tell someone, “Be careful who you trust,” but living through betrayal is another story. I’ve learned that boundaries are not rude – they’re essential. I’ve learned that sometimes, the cost of keeping someone in your life is far greater than the benefit they seem to bring.

Most importantly, I’ve learned about my own strength. Even when the walls closed in, I didn’t shut down the shop. I kept going, for my children, for my livelihood, and for my self-respect. Each day I unlock that door, clean that floor, light that lamp, and greet whoever walks in with a genuine smile, I am reclaiming a little bit of my power.

Moving Forward

I don’t know if what happened to me was simply bad luck, manipulation, or something more sinister. What I do know is that I am rebuilding. I’m learning new ways to protect my space, both physically and energetically. I’m finding small rituals of strength – lighting a diya in the morning, chanting mantras for positive energy, keeping my intentions pure.

Clients are slowly returning. My children are still by my side, and though it’s hard, I’m grateful they’re learning what resilience looks like in rea life. I’m not just surviving; I’m transforming.

Closing Thoughts

This story isn’t about a helper who betrayed my trust. It’s about the silent battles so many mothers fighting behind the scenes – balancing business, children, and the fallout of bad decisions. It’s about how quickly life can shift from stability to struggle, and how we can still rise from it,

If you’re reading this and you’ve been through something similar, know this: you’re not alone. Your pain is valid. Your struggle is real. And your strength is far greater than you realize.

I still believe kindness is a virtue. But now I pair it with discernment. I still open my doors each morning. But now I do it with intention, with prayer, and with the fierce determination of a mother who refuses to let betrayal define her future.

A detailed article on how betrayal trauma affects mental and emotional health and what steps can help in recovery. Betrayal Trauma: Signs and How to Start Healing (Healthline)

3. When Festivals Pass By Quietly: A Mother’s Dasara Story of Strength and Stillness

When Festivals Pass By Quietly: A Mother’s Dasara Story of Strength and Stillnesshttps://mysticalmomworld.com/dividing-house-chores-changed-my-peace-parenting-and-practice/

When Festivals Pass By Quietly: A Mother’s Dasara Story of Strength and Stillness…Festivals in India are not just about rituals; they are about togetherness, laughter, and creating memories that stay with us for a lifetime. Among them, Dasara (Navratri) holds a special place. The lights, the prayers, the decorated streets, the temple bells, and the joy of children running around in new clothes-this is the heartbeat of the season.

When Festivals Pass By Quietly

But this year, as the world outside danced in the spirit of Navratri, our home stood still. Not because we didn’t want to celebrate, but because life had other plans for us.

When Festivals Pass By Quietly: Dreams That Couldn’t Take Flight

For weeks before Dasara, I had been making plans in my heart. I wanted to take my kids out for at least two days of pure joy-let them see the beautifully decorated temples, play in the pandals, maybe even enjoy the cultural programs that brighten ourcity during this season.

I had one more dream: I wanted to attend events where I could explore my potential as an artist. It’s something that brings me joy, creativity, and a chance to connect with children and families. Festivals are the perfect time for such small ventures, and I had been looking forward to being part of the festive crowds with my paints and brushes.

But when the time came, my body simply said no. My health issues grew severe, and I found myself confined to bed, watching my dreams slip away like sand through my fingers.

A Father’s Silent Sacrifice

As if that wasn’t enough, my husband too is dealing with his own storm-living with a broken femur neck. For him every step is a challenge. He couldn’t jump around with kids, couldn’t carry them on his shoulders to show them the glowing lights, couldn’t run behind them at temple fairs.

But he didn’t give up. With the strength he could muster, he took the children to the temple in the morning, and in the evening, he took them outside to play in the sand. It may sound small compared to grand celebrations, but in that moment, it was everything.

For my children, it was their little slice of Dasara-tiny hands digging castles in the sand, giggles echoing in the evening breeze, and the temple bells ringing softly in the background.

My Children’s Innocence

I had feared that my children would feel the absence of celebration. After all, festivals are about fun for them-new clothes, outings, sweets, and cultural programs. They saw other children heading out in glittering dresses, families posting festival photos, and the roads lighting up with joy.

I worried they would ask me, “Why not us?” But children have an innocence that shields them from bitterness. My little ones adapted. They filled their day with cartoons, games at home, painted themselves along with the walls and laughter on the bed beside me. They even visited a neighbour’s house for kanjak pooja. They never once complained about not going out, not getting new dresses.

Instead, they gave me strength. They became my little festival, bringing joy in the smallest ways-even if it was just through their silly jokes or tight hugs when I felt like crying.

When Festivals Pass By Quietly: The Festival That Didn’t Look Like One

When I looked around my home, I realized something painful-there was no sign of the festival at all. No colorful rangoli at the door, no fragrance of flowers, no sounds of laughter from relatives visiting.

Dasara was happening everywhere, but inside my four walls, it was just another day. A mother lying in bed, a father struggling with his pain, and two little children making the best of what they had.

It hurt. It hurt deeply to see the festival go by while we stayed behind. To know that I couldn’t give my children what every parent dreams of-happy memories to cherish. To accept that my body didn’t allow me to attend even a single event, not even the art venture I had been so excited about.

When Festivals Pass By Quietly: Lessons From The Goddess Herself

And yet, in the middle of this silence, I felt the presence of Goddess Durga. She didn’t come in the form of grand celebrations or temple visits. She came in the form of quite strength.

Dasara is about the victory of good over evil, strength over weakness, and hope over despair. This year, my “demons” were not mythical monsters but my own health struggles, my husband’s injury, and the sadness of unfilled plans. And yet, even in this battle, I found moments of victory.

Victory was in my husband’s determination to take the kids to the temple despite his broken leg. Victory was in my children’s laughter, proving that joy doesn’t always need grandness. Victory was in my ability to endure my pain while still being present with my family.

What This Dasara Taught Me

This year, I learned that festivals don’t always come wrapped in bright colors. Sometimes, they come in shades of gray, testing our patience, our strength, and our love for one another.

Yes, I missed the crowd, the music, the lights, and the energy of celebration. Yes, my heart still aches that I couldn’t watch my children run with other kids in festive outfits, couldn’t give them the joy I had envisioned.

But maybe, just maybe, this Dasara gave me something else-an understanding that love and togetherness matter more than decorations and outings. That strength is not in being able to do everything, but in enduring when you can do very little.

When Festivals Pass By Quietly: Looking Ahead With Hope

I close this Dasara with a prayer. A prayer that next year, life will be kinder. That my body will allow me to take my kids out in the bright lights of Navratri. That my husband’s strength will be restored, and he can walk beside them without pain. That I can set up my art venture, adding colors to children’s smiles, and feel like I truly belong in the festival crowd.

But even if life tests us again, I know this much-the spirit of Dasara lives in our hearts. As long as we hold on to love, faith, and resilience, no festival can ever pass us by completely.

Closing Thought

Not every festival is meant to be grand. Some festivals remind us of our limitations, while also teaching us about hidden strengths. This Dasara, I didn’t see the processions, didn’t hear the drums up so close, and didn’t light my home with decorations. Yet, I saw something deeper-I saw the strength of my husband, the innocence of my children, and the quite presence of the Goddess in our little world.

This Dasara wasn’t about what we couldn’t do. It was about what we still managed to hold on to-faith, family, and love.

https://www.kidsmentalhealthfoundation.org/mental-health-resources/stress/handling-holiday-stress